Pets and Fencing: 9 tips for Creating a Safe Environment for Your Four-Legged Friends

Our four-legged friends bring joy, love, and companionship into our lives. As pet owners, it's our responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being, and one essential aspect of pet care is providing a secure environment. That's where a pet-friendly fence comes into play. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of pet-friendly fences and share tips on choosing the right fence to keep your furry companions safe and happy.

The Benefits of Pet-Friendly Fences

1. Containment: A well-designed pet-friendly fence serves as a barrier, keeping your pets safely within your property. This containment prevents them from wandering off, getting lost, or encountering potential dangers like traffic, whether you're housing four-legged friends or backyard hens.  Feel free to refer to the City of Kingston's pets and animal page for more information.

2. Safety: Fences offer protection from various hazards, including wildlife, aggressive animals, and unsecured swimming pools. They also keep your pets away from poisonous plants and other potentially harmful substances in your yard.

3. Exercise and Play: Fencing provides a designated area for your pets to exercise and play freely. This not only keeps them physically fit but also mentally stimulated, reducing boredom-related behavior issues.

4. Peace of Mind: With pet fencing in place, you can have peace of mind, knowing your pets are secure and can enjoy the outdoors without constant supervision.

Tips for Choosing the Right Pet-Friendly Fence

When selecting a fence that's suitable for your pets, consider the following factors:

1. Fence Height: Choose a fence height that prevents your pets from jumping over or climbing. For most dogs, a fence that is at least 4 to 6 feet tall is ideal.

2. Spacing Between Pickets: Ensure that the spacing between pickets or panels is narrow enough to prevent small dogs or cats from squeezing through. For added security, consider adding a mesh or wire barrier to the lower portion of the fence.

3. Material Selection: Opt for durable and pet-resistant fencing materials. Vinyl fencing, aluminum, chain-link and pressure treated wood fences are popular choices, as they are low-maintenance and withstand wear and tear.

4. Gates and Latches: Use secure gates with latches that are out of reach for your pets. Self-closing and self-latching gates provide an extra layer of security.

5. Visibility: Consider fences with gaps or materials that allow your pets to see outside. This can help reduce their anxiety and the urge to escape by allowing them to observe their surroundings.

6. Landscaping: Be mindful of the landscaping around your fence. Avoid planting near the fence line if your pets tend to dig, as they might use the plants as leverage to escape.

7. Training: Even with a pet-friendly fence, it's essential to train your pets to respect boundaries. Consistent reinforcement of these boundaries will ensure they stay safe.

8. Local Regulations: Check the City of Kingston's fence bylaws to ensure compliance with fence height and style restrictions.

9. Consult with Professionals: When in doubt, consult with a professional fence company in Kingston. They can assess your property, discuss your specific needs, and recommend the most suitable fencing solution for your pets.


Example

At Kingston Fence, we recently helped a homeowner in the Greenwood Park neighbourhood install a durable and secure pressure-treated wood privacy fence to safely enclose their backyard for their energetic Labrador retriever. With over 75% of households in Greenwood Park owning at least one pet, according to local Kingston by-law pet licensing data, creating a safe and fully enclosed outdoor space has become a top priority for many residents. We installed over 110 linear feet of fencing with reinforced posts and pet-safe gates designed to prevent digging and slipping through. The homeowner was thrilled to finally let their dog roam freely in the yard without worry. This project not only improved peace of mind but also added long-term value and curb appeal to their home—something that’s especially important in Kingston’s competitive real estate market, where fenced yards can increase resale value by up to 5%.

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